I’m a vet – the three dog breeds that can’t cope with Scots weather and the ‘short & frequent’ trick to keep them safe
PET owners have been warned to limit dog walks with snow set to blast the country this week.
The Met Office has yellow warnings of flurries and ice in place for Scotland until 9am on Monday, January 6.
As people prepare for the chilly temperatures, pet owners may want to ready their animals as well as themselves.
Leading vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan has revealed there are expert guidelines you must follow to ensure safe winter walks for dogs.
From temperature thresholds, recommended walking times, warning signs and practical tips, every detail is crucial.
Indeed, knowing when it’s too cold to walk your dog has become a critical safety issue for the nation’s pet owners with freezing conditions and the possibility of snowfall.
In partnership with TrustedHousesitters, Dr MacMillan said: “Most of us take sensible actions over the winter to look after ourselves, but we also need to think about how to keep our pets safe.
“The chilly weather can be enjoyed safely with our furry companions as long as you take a few simple precautions.”
And there are three dog breeds in particular that can struggle in the harsh winter weather.
Smaller breeds should be limited to 15-20 minutes when temperatures fall below 0°C (32°F).
And breeds like Dachshunds, Pugs, and Yorkshire Terriers need extra protection, such as sweaters, waterproof jackets, and booties to keep their paws warm.
Dr MacMillan says you should also limit outdoor time for senior dogs and puppies to “quick toilet breaks” in severe weather.
Likewise, dogs with health conditions such as arthritis can worsen in cold weather, so the pet expert recommends indoor exercise alternatives.
Medium to large dogs, on the other hand, can typically handle 30-minute walks in temperatures above -6°C (20°F) with thick-coated breeds such as German Shepherds and Huskies expertly handling colder conditions.
If you’re looking to plan ahead for walks over the weekend, Dr MacMillan suggests heading out during the warmest part of the day, typically between 11am and 2pm.
You should also break up exercise into shorter, more frequent walks rather than one long exposure to cold conditions.
Dog walk warning signs
Act immediately if you spot these early warning signs of cold stress:
- Shaking or shivering – don’t assume this is normal winter behaviour
- Walking stiffly or lifting paws off the ground – this could indicate painful ice or salt between paw pads
- Hunched posture with tucked tail – a sign your dog is trying to preserve body heat
- Whining or barking unnecessarily – your dog may be trying to communicate discomfort
“This allows both you and your dog to warm up between outings while maintaining necessary daily exercise”, she says.
Angela Laws, Head of Community at TrustedHousesitters, adds: “We’ve seen firsthand how different breeds react to cold weather – what’s comfortable for a Scottish Highland Collie might be dangerous for a Mediterranean Whippet.
“These vet-approved guidelines help pet owners make informed decisions about winter exercise. It’s about finding that balance between keeping our furry friends active and ensuring their safety during the colder months.”